Shell Key Preserve

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Shell Key - An island bordered by North Channel (Pass-a-Grille Channel) to the north and Hook Island to the south.

(Shell Key is often referred to as "Shell Island" by locals, despite the published name on nautical charts, and county publications)

Shell Key, Hook Island, and the surrounding submerged lands are all part of Shell Key Preserve, a Pinellas County Preserve. Certain areas of the island are posted off-limits as critical nesting area for various endangered or threatened shorebirds, including the Least Tern.

Anchoring is permitted off the island's northern side and inside the eastern bight, however anchoring is not allowed on the bight itself due to the very strong current. Most of the central and southern backwaters is a "combustion motor exclusion" area, and is too shallow to access by boat. Kayaking, dinghying, and snorkeling is permitted and encouraged in the backwaters, and is the best means to explore one of the last unspoiled barrier island habitats. Horseshoe crabs, fish, and several types of stingrays are usually visible in the relatively clear water.

CAMPING:
On-board overnight camping is encouraged and does NOT require a permit, but transients should be mindful of theft and vandalism associated with weekend gatherings. Boat owners should keep a watchful eye on their vessels.

Overnight tent camping is encouraged on the southern end along Bunces Pass. Large groups (over 50 persons) must obtain a permit (even if arriving on separate vessels). Permits are available from Pinellas County - Environmental Lands Division, 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702.

REGULATIONS:
Pets must remain on vessels. Alcoholic beverages, whether open or closed, are prohibited in all Pinellas County Parks and Preserves (County Ordinance #02-6). This means alcohol containers, whether open or closed, are prohibited both on the island and all of the preserve's waterways. Although deputies/rangers will not aggressively target on-board activities, those with visible containers wading, swimming, or standing outside their boat, or walking on the island will likely be charged. Live shelling remains prohibited. The park is occassionally patrolled, and constantly monitored by surrounding residents.

MANAGEMENT PLAN:
From 2000-2007 Shell Key was governed under a "pilot" management plan. After years of compromises, and years of abuse, the experimental management plan came to an end with the adoption of a slightly altered management plan. From 2007 forth, strict enforcement of regulations began with 3 deputies added by the County Commission, as well as increased patrols by PCDEM enforcement officers, rangers, police, coast guard, and FWC personnel. Under the new plan, better (and fewer) signage is being installed to clarify rules and better educate citizens while improving asthetics. Little has changed as far as regulation zones -- only the dunes and backwaters of the central-portion remain completely off-limits. Thus, boaters are encouraged to visit and enjoy Shell Key as they would any other barrier island (i.e. Egmont Key NWR, Caladesi Island State Park), but destructive parties are not tolerated.

Shell Key was formerly separated from Hook Island by South Channel, which was capped-off over time through the process of barrier island migration, the redepositing of sand due to longshore current.